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Updated: May 9, 2026
09:43
An Efficient and Simple Method to Establish NK and T Cell Lines from Patients with Chronic Active Epstein-Barr Virus Infection
Published on: March 30, 2018
Genital ulcers associated with Epstein-Barr virus.
Kimberly Jerdan1, Iris Aronson, Claudia Hernandez
1Department of Dermatology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
Cutis
|July 10, 2013
Summary
Genital ulcerations are a rare sign of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. This case highlights the importance of considering EBV in adolescents presenting with these symptoms, alongside other signs like fever and discharge.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Adolescent Medicine
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus, typically causing infectious mononucleosis.
- Genital manifestations of EBV infection are infrequent and often misdiagnosed.
- Recognizing rare presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with diarrhea, headache, dysuria, vaginal discharge, and vulvar ulcerations with edema.
- Initial symptoms mimicked other common infections, delaying EBV consideration.
- Physical examination revealed significant vulvar edema and ulcerations.
Findings:
- Laboratory tests confirmed active Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
- Elevated EBV IgG and early antigen levels were detected.
- Positive EBV IgM antibodies indicated a recent or active infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare association between EBV and genital ulcerations.
- Physicians should consider EBV in the differential diagnosis of adolescent genital ulcerations.
- Awareness of this presentation aids in excluding other infections and alleviating patient anxiety.
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